SpringfieldNewsSun.com

SPRINGFIELD — As wedding season approaches, brides and bridegrooms can start their planning this weekend at The Westcott House and Clark County Heritage Center.

A Wedding Affair Benefit is a unique, first-time event for local brides, and will include a local vendor exhibition and runway show.

"A lot of brides from Springfield think they have to go out of town for these services," said Julie Albaugh, owner of Julie's Videography and springfieldbrides.com. She helped coordinate the event.

Many brides-to-be get engaged around Christmas time and quickly move on with planning, she said.

When seeking a location for the bridal show, a friend suggested The Westcott House.

"I thought, 'What a unique location for a bridal show,' said Albaugh, who was also able to secure renowned designer and author Michael Nolte for the event.

Nolte's gowns, many limited edition, will be featured in the fashion show Sunday at the Heritage Center. He will hold an autograph session for his latest book, "The Nell Hill's Stylish Bride," after the show.

"For him to come to Springfield is just amazing," said Ashley Horn, event coordinator for The Main Event. Each room in the Westcott House will be set up for a theme reception, Horn said.

Saturday will feature modern themes such as Eastern Indian, Oriental and outdoor inspiration. Sunday will include more historic themes such as Victorian.

A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the Clark County Breast Cancer Endowment Fund.

Tickets are available until 3 p.m. today or can be purchased at the door.

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A Wedding Affair Benefit schedule and ticket info:

6-9 p.m. Saturday: Westcott House Exhibit, 1340 E. High St.

10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday: Westcott House Exhibit

5-8 p.m. Sunday: Clark County Heritage Center

6 p.m. Sunday: Runway Fashion Show at Heritage Center of Clark County, 117 South Fountain Ave.

Single-day tickets: $20

Two-day tickets: $25

Tickets at the door prior to fashion show: $30

Gold three-event ticket: $25 prior to show or $30 at the door. A gold ticket must be purchased to attend the event at the Heritage Center.

Tickets are available at www.springfieldbrides.com, Grissom's Bridal and Tux, Schneider's Florist, Circa Designs or The Westcott House.